Since 2004, Donations of Nearly $4 Million Provide Scholarships to Undergraduates in Nursing and Other Majors

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—�۶�ֱ�� continually seeks scholarship opportunities for its students. A major partner in this endeavor is the Lettie Pate Whitehead (LPW) Foundation Inc. For nearly three decades, LPW has supported Christian higher education at GWU with a donation history reaching close to $4 million.

“Our relationship with the Lettie Pate Whitehead Foundation truly is a special one, and it has been sustained over the years such that the impact on GWU students is both profound and indelible,” shared �۶�ֱ�� President Dr. William M. Downs. “Not long ago we were privileged to host Carrie Conway (Senior Program Officer) and Lyons Gray (Trustee for the LPW Foundation) on our campus, and I am grateful for their subsequent decision to continue supporting our students. Because �۶�ֱ��’s student- and faith-centric mission aligns so nicely with the Foundation’s, this is a natural partnership that we value very highly.”

The LPW Foundation was chartered in 1946 and devotes most of its resources to the scholarship program, which provides scholarship grants with the intent of educating Christian women with demonstrated financial need, at nearly 200 higher education institutions across the southeast.

In fiscal years 2023-2024 and 2024-2025, LPW’s trustees presented �۶�ֱ�� with grants totaling $290,000 for each year. These gifts, along with other University aid, provide scholarships in financial aid packages to students in nursing and other undergraduate programs.

�۶�ֱ�� graduate Alivia Lo received her degree in elementary education on May 2, 2024. She expressed her gratitude for the financial assistance from LPW. “As a woman and a first-generation Hmong college student, the Lettie Pate Whitehead Foundation Scholarship has helped me put financial needs at ease, so I could focus on achieving a life-long goal of graduating with my degree,” Lo affirmed. “Without the Lettie Pate Whitehead Foundation Scholarship, paying my way through college would have been nearly impossible; it has been a huge blessing in my life.”

Emily Cox, also a May 2024 graduate with a degree in political science and public relations, reflected on what the funds have meant to her. In addition to her studies, she has served as parliamentarian for the Student Government Association and is a student advisor for the College of Arts and Sciences. “The Lettie Pate Whitehead Foundation has enabled me to continue my studies at �۶�ֱ��, allowing me to thrive in my education,” Cox asserted. “The support I have received allowed me to take more classes geared toward my future career and learn and grow in a supportive environment. I would not have been able to continue my education with my GWU family without the Lettie Pate Whitehead Foundation.”

Lettie Pate Whitehead Evans was a generous philanthropist and accomplished businesswoman. She was the wife of Joseph B. Whitehead, one of the original bottlers of Coca-Cola. At his death, she assumed management of his business affairs, establishing the Whitehead Holding Company and the Whitehead Realty Company and leading the Coca-Cola Bottling Company in Atlanta. She also became one of the first female directors of any major U.S. corporation when she was appointed to the board of The Coca-Cola Company in 1934, a position she held for nearly 20 years.

Whitehead felt a keen sense of duty to those in need. Grieving the loss of her first husband and two sons, she devoted herself to faith and philanthropy. A quote she lived by is tucked inside the pages of her personal scrapbook. The inspirational words are attributed to Stephen Grellet, a French-American missionary from the 18th/19th centuries: “I shall pass through this world but once. Any good therefore that I can do or any kindness that I can show to any human being, let me do it now. Let me not defer or neglect it, for I shall not pass this way again.”

Besides providing scholarships, the Foundation also supports select elderly care facilities in Georgia, North Carolina and Virginia. A video with more information on the Whitehead family can be found

Note to our readers: This article reflects the University’s tuition and fee schedule at the time of publication. Tuition and financial aid policies change annually. For the most up-to-date and accurate information on current tuition rates and financial aid resources, please visit the University’s official Admissions page.

�۶�ֱ�� University is North Carolina’s recognized leader in private, Christian higher education. A Carnegie-Classified Doctoral/Professional University, GWU is home to nine colleges and schools, more than 80 undergraduate and graduate majors, and a world-class faculty. Located on a beautiful 225-acre campus in Boiling Springs, N.C., �۶�ֱ�� prepares graduates to impact their chosen professions, equips them with the skills to advance the frontiers of knowledge, and inspires them to make a positive and lasting difference in the lives of others. Ignite your future at �۶�ֱ��.edu

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Applications Accepted Until April 11th for 14th Annual Awards

CHARLOTTE, N.C.  – Once again, Big South Corporate Partner Sunbelt Rentals is offering scholarships to Big South students entering their final semesters as an undergraduate.  Applications for the scholarship are now being accepted on   under the “Sunbelt Rentals Scholarship” tab on the home page, which also includes the criteria for the award.  The deadline for applications is Tuesday, April 11, 2023.

To qualify, students must be enrolled in a Big South member institution and be entering their final semesters as an undergraduate. The scholarship recognizes students of underrepresented populations including women, minorities, disabled students, as well as current and former military personnel. Two scholarship recipients will be awarded $4,000 from Sunbelt Rentals, with the scholarship applied to expenses associated with their final semesters as an undergraduate. A committee of Big South Conference officials, representatives from member institutions and Sunbelt Rentals executives selects the recipients of the scholarships.

“The Big South is excited to continue the Sunbelt Rentals Minority Scholarship for the 14th consecutive year as a means of recognizing the work done in the classroom, campus, and the community by students within the Big South Conference,” said Kelsey Houser, account executive for the Big South Conference. “Sunbelt has been a great partner to the Big South and given over $120,000 in scholarship funds. We look forward to this continued partnership and the opportunities it provides to our students.”

Interested applicants can download the application form and view award criteria via one of the following ways:

·        Click on 

·        Click on the “Fan Zone” tab on , and look for “Sunbelt Rentals Scholarship”

·        Scroll to the bottom of  and click on the Sunbelt Rentals Scholarship Program image

In the fall of 2008, Sunbelt Rentals in partnership with the Big South Conference established the Sunbelt Rentals Scholarship as a means of recognizing the work done in the classroom, campus, and the community by students within the Big South Conference.

Previous �۶�ֱ�� winners include Courtney Finocchiaro (2012) and Jennifer Escalera (2022).

DeLand, Fla. native Finocchiaro, a golfer, was named to the Big South All-Academic Teams (2011-12), played in 11 of 12 tournaments her senior year; she was also the Runnin’ Bulldogs top golfer in three tournaments during that time. She was placed on the Big South’s Presidential Honor Roll for her entire collegiate career (2008-2012).

Escalera is a redshirt junior distance runner with �۶�ֱ�� Track & Field and Cross Country. The Rutherfordton, N.C., native competes in the 1,500-meter, 3,000-meter and 5,000-meter events in track for the Runnin’ Bulldogs. She represented GWU in each of the past three Big South Conference Cross Country Championships.

�۶�ֱ�� has been a full member of the Big South Conference since 2008.

Note to our readers: This article reflects the University’s tuition and fee schedule at the time of publication. Tuition and financial aid policies change annually. For the most up-to-date and accurate information on current tuition rates and financial aid resources, please visit the University’s official Admissions page.

�۶�ֱ�� University is North Carolina’s recognized leader in private, Christian higher education. A Carnegie-Classified Doctoral/Professional University, GWU is home to nine colleges and schools, more than 80 undergraduate and graduate majors, and a world-class faculty. Located on a beautiful 225-acre campus in Boiling Springs, N.C., �۶�ֱ�� prepares graduates to impact their chosen professions, equips them with the skills to advance the frontiers of knowledge, and inspires them to make a positive and lasting difference in the lives of others. Ignite your future at �۶�ֱ��.edu.

The post �۶�ֱ�� Students Invited to Apply for Big South/Sunbelt Scholarships appeared first on �۶�ֱ�� University.

Up to $20,000 in Merit-Based Scholarships Available for Eligible Students

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—�۶�ֱ�� has announced that eligible incoming students may earn up to $20,000 in merit-based scholarships for the 2023-24 academic year. Last year, scholarship and grant award amounts ranged from $6,000 to $18,000 per new student. 

“Over 95% of our incoming students receive some type of merit aid from Gardner Webb,” noted Dean Clark, vice president for Enrollment Management. “One of the most exciting ways we are able to recognize students is by honoring them for academic achievement. Offering an increase in our top merit scholarship funds from $18,000 to $20,000 annually is one important way we can acknowledge students for a dedication to their educational journeys so far,” added Clark. “We constantly work to increase opportunities for GWU students, and to make our education affordable, competitive and attractive to prospective families.” 

Merit-based aid comes from institutional scholarships and grants that will be awarded to new �۶�ֱ�� students recognizing previous or current work in high school or other colleges. The University is dedicated to providing students, many of whom might otherwise be unable to attend the GWU, with focused, efficient, and responsible financial services and guidance.

“Our increased institutional investment in merit scholarship awards will make �۶�ֱ�� that much more attractive and that much more competitive in what has become a crowded marketplace of colleges and universities,” explained GWU President Dr. William M. Downs.  “By comparison, our academic degree programs are exceptional.  Our faculty are genuinely dedicated to student success.  Our campus community is both welcoming and supportive.  With this expansion of merit scholarship support, prospective students now have every reason to choose �۶�ֱ�� as their academic home and to become proud members of the Runnin’ Bulldog family.”    

Additionally, eligible students are encouraged to explore, and apply for other scholarships and grants available from �۶�ֱ��. These include – need-based, performance-based, church-related, geographic, legacy scholarships and others.  A list of many of these scholarships can be found here. 

Institutional scholarships require a student to be enrolled full time (12 or more hours) and to maintain a grade point average in accordance with the institution’s Scholarship Maintenance Policy.

For more information contact the GWU Admissions Office at admissions@gardner-webb.edu or apply now at .

Note to our readers: This article reflects the University’s tuition and fee schedule at the time of publication. Tuition and financial aid policies change annually. For the most up-to-date and accurate information on current tuition rates and financial aid resources, please visit the University’s official Admissions page.

  �۶�ֱ�� University is North Carolina’s recognized leader in private, Christian higher education. A Carnegie-Classified Doctoral/Professional University, GWU is home to nine colleges and schools, more than 80 undergraduate and graduate majors, and a world-class faculty. Located on a beautiful 225-acre campus in Boiling Springs, N.C., �۶�ֱ�� prepares graduates to impact their chosen professions, equips them with the skills to advance the frontiers of knowledge, and inspires them to make a positive and lasting difference in the lives of others. Ignite your future at �۶�ֱ��.edu.

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Students Who Complete Required Checklist Items by Jan. 25, 2023, will Receive Additional Benefits

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—College-bound students, who are ready to join the Runnin’ Bulldog family at �۶�ֱ�� University, now have the Early Admission Advantage option for Fall 2023. Students who choose this option and meet all the qualifications and deadlines will be accepted for the fall and be notified of an estimated financial aid package by Jan. 16, 2023.

Students admitted as part of the new early action program will receive additional scholarship opportunities, priority housing, and free parking for the 2023-24 academic year.

“At �۶�ֱ��, we want to get out of the gate early,” explained President William Downs. “We want to compete now for the best and brightest who will comprise the GWU Class of 2027, and we want to get them started on their path to success immediately. The decision of where to attend college is a big one, and preparations for university life should not be left to the last minute. With our new Early Admission Advantage initiative, students can gain the assurances they need in order to be ready for Fall 2023.”   

Interim Vice President for Enrollment Management Mavia Lee explained that the early option allows students to get the application process out of the way earlier and receive acceptance sooner. “Becoming a part of our Early Admissions Advantage program removes the stress and gives students a chance to enjoy all the traditions of their senior year and more time to plan,” Lee noted. “In addition, applying to �۶�ֱ��’s Early Admissions Advantage program can help candidates with strong applications to stand out from the crowd.”

To be eligible for GWU Early Admission Advantage for Fall 2023, students are required to meet the following deadlines:

• Complete the �۶�ֱ�� Application and FAFSA by Nov. 21, 2022.
• Submit the Admissions offer confirmation form by Dec. 15, 2022.
• Incoming Student Housing Applications open on Dec. 1, 2022.
• Submit Housing Application Form and Enrollment Deposit by Jan. 26, 2023.
• Priority Housing Selection will open on Feb. 27, 2023, at 6 a.m.
• Priority Housing Selection will close on March 5, 2023, at 11:59 p.m.

Students can learn more about �۶�ֱ�� and Early Admission Advantage at Dawg Day events on Sept. 24 and Nov. 19. Activities include a campus tour, information fair with faculty from various areas, and an option to visit with the Financial Planning staff. The day wraps up with a free meal and three tickets to a home football game, parking pass included.

Note to our readers: This article reflects the University’s tuition and fee schedule at the time of publication. Tuition and financial aid policies change annually. For the most up-to-date and accurate information on current tuition rates and financial aid resources, please visit the University’s official Admissions page.

�۶�ֱ�� University is North Carolina’s recognized leader in private, Christian higher education. A Carnegie-Classified Doctoral/Professional University, GWU is home to six professional schools, 14 academic departments, more than 80 undergraduate and graduate majors, and a world-class faculty. Located on a beautiful 225-acre campus in Boiling Springs, N.C., �۶�ֱ�� prepares graduates to impact their chosen professions, equips them with the skills to advance the frontiers of knowledge, and inspires them to make a positive and lasting difference in the lives of others. Ignite your future at �۶�ֱ��.edu.

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Church-Matching and Minister’s Dependent Scholarships Enhance Relationships

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—In 2019, �۶�ֱ�� officials pledged to strengthen ties to Christian churches and announced a significant expansion to two scholarship programs: The and the Minister’s Dependent Scholarship. That year, zero students received the Church-Matching and only 14 received $13,500 from the Minister’s Dependent. Since then, 155 students have received a total of $577,058 from both forms of aid.

“These numbers tell a clear and impressive story,” emphasized GWU President William Downs. “At �۶�ֱ�� we’re serious about recruiting students who want to live and study at an authentic and welcoming Christian institution of higher education. We back that commitment with real scholarship dollars, so that students and their families are now better able to navigate college finances. I am delighted that an initiative we launched three years ago has so quickly, and so profoundly, begun benefiting so many students.”

The Church-Matching Scholarship matches the funds a student receives from an endowed or budgeted scholarship given by any Christian church or organization. The Minister’s Dependent Scholarship is offered to any dependent student of a full-time minister of a Christian church or an ordained, full-time employee of a Christian church or church-related agency. Both scholarships stack on top of other institutional aid up to the cost of tuition.

The scholarships helped L’Mia Littlejohn, of Shelby, N.C., transfer to �۶�ֱ�� in 2021. After attending a larger university, Littlejohn felt more at home on GWU’s friendly campus. Plus, she was offered a spot on the women’s basketball team. She said the smaller environment gives her more opportunities to form meaningful friendships, and the professors are available to answer questions and offer help. “�۶�ֱ�� is a small community that helps students thrive inside and outside the classroom,” she described. “At this university, you will always be surrounded by people who will support you and help you grow.”

Because she transferred from a four-year institution, Littlejohn also received a GWU Transfer Housing Grant, which offers free room and board. “The aid has given me the opportunity to get an education without putting a financial burden on me and my family,” explained Littlejohn, a senior.

Meredith Jane Bridges, of Kings Mountain, N.C., is also the daughter of a minister and grateful to receive the Minister’s Dependent Scholarship from �۶�ֱ��. “This grant is another way that God has shown me that �۶�ֱ�� is the place that I am meant to be,” Bridges affirmed. “�۶�ֱ�� has been so generous and welcoming to me with their offer of this scholarship and others, and in this way, God really opened the path for me to be able to come to school here. I am so thankful, because �۶�ֱ�� is a home and family to me now.”

With the scholarship and other financial aid, Bridges decided to double major in English and psychology. “Writing has always been my passion, and my English studies are developing my voice as a writer as well as teaching me in what ways I can use my gifts after college,” affirmed the senior. “I feel called to work with children, and I want to follow through on that, either as a counselor or a librarian.”

Callie Owen, a junior from Balsam Grove, N.C., and her sister, Ressie, a 2021 alumna, both received the Minister’s Dependent Scholarship. “Paying for college can become such a burden on so many students, and the fact that GWU offers a scholarship to help my family means a great deal,” Owen asserted. “Throughout the past 5 years, the Minister’s Dependent Scholarship has helped us to further our education. My family is also grateful that it is another scholarship to allow me to be at a school where I can continue to grow in my faith and be in a community-centered environment.”

Owen is guided by a goal “to one day be able to give back to the places that gave to me growing up.”

To fulfill this dream, she’s preparing to teach middle grades math. “I have always considered the field of education a calling,” Owen affirmed. “Education fuels the world; it is so vital in every child’s life.”

Note to our readers: This article reflects the University’s tuition and fee schedule at the time of publication. Tuition and financial aid policies change annually. For the most up-to-date and accurate information on current tuition rates and financial aid resources, please visit the University’s official Admissions page.

�۶�ֱ�� University is North Carolina’s recognized leader in private, Christian higher education. A Carnegie-Classified Doctoral/Professional University, GWU is home to six professional schools, 14 academic departments, more than 80 undergraduate and graduate majors, and a world-class faculty. Located on a beautiful 225-acre campus in Boiling Springs, N.C., �۶�ֱ�� prepares graduates to impact their chosen professions, equips them with the skills to advance the frontiers of knowledge, and inspires them to make a positive and lasting difference in the lives of others. Ignite your future at �۶�ֱ��.edu.

The post Church-Related Scholarships for �۶�ֱ�� Students Soar to New High appeared first on �۶�ֱ�� University.

Daughter of Alumna Appreciates Financial Assistance Provided by Foothills Commitment

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Whitney Upton, ’24, a chemistry major at �۶�ֱ�� University, attends three classes at GWU this summer and works at Rutherford Sales & Recovery Co. in Forest City, N.C. She looks forward to the fall semester, being back on campus full time and reconnecting with her roommates and suitemates.

As she prepares for another year at �۶�ֱ��, Whitney offers this advice to incoming freshmen, “Just be yourself, try new things, study hard and have fun.”

�۶�ֱ�� was Whitney’s first choice for college, because her mom, Rosa Upton, earned her Master of Business Administration from GWU in 2017. Additionally, Whitney was impressed with the chemistry program and believed the faculty would provide what she needed to pursue a career with the State Bureau of Investigation.

She wants to reassure new students that the faculty is approachable and helpful. “What I love most about campus is the science department,” Whitney related. “I value the extent that the teachers go to in order to help you succeed. They make sure you understand all that you are learning. I will definitely be prepared for what my future holds.”

Whitney is also thankful for the Foothills Commitment that helps her family pay for college. The Foothills Commitment is available to residents of Cleveland, Lincoln, Gaston and Rutherford counties, and the Piedmont Promise is for Mecklenburg County residents. These initiatives provide a minimum of $15,610 (50 percent of tuition) in all forms of institutional aid to new freshmen students from those counties who enroll in a full-time residential undergraduate program at GWU. The reduced rate is renewable, and residents from these counties who apply to GWU and meet the qualifications will automatically be a part of the program. Students also need to file the FAFSA form.

“I am glad to have the opportunity to attend Gardner Webb,” Whitney affirmed. “Without this scholarship, I feel I would have had a little more difficulty paying for my schooling.”

Applying to �۶�ֱ�� is free for traditional undergraduate students. For more information about admissions and other financial aid opportunities, email admissions@gardner-webb.edu or call 704-406-2550.

Note to our readers: This article reflects the University’s tuition and fee schedule at the time of publication. Tuition and financial aid policies change annually. For the most up-to-date and accurate information on current tuition rates and financial aid resources, please visit the University’s official Admissions page.

�۶�ֱ�� University is North Carolina’s recognized leader in private, Christian higher education. A Carnegie-Classified Doctoral/Professional University, GWU is home to six professional schools, 14 academic departments, more than 80 undergraduate and graduate majors, and a world-class faculty. Located on a beautiful 225-acre campus in Boiling Springs, N.C., �۶�ֱ�� prepares graduates to impact their chosen professions, equips them with the skills to advance the frontiers of knowledge, and inspires them to make a positive and lasting difference in the lives of others. Ignite your future at �۶�ֱ��.edu.

The post �۶�ֱ�� was College of First Choice for Chemistry Major, Whitney Upton, ’24 appeared first on �۶�ֱ�� University.

Student-Athlete Appreciates Hands-on Learning and Availability of Professors

L’Mia Littlejohn, of Shelby, N.C., transferred to �۶�ֱ�� in 2021, because after attending a larger university, GWU’s friendly campus felt like home. She said the smaller environment has provided more opportunities to form meaningful relationships with others.

Because she transferred from a four-year institution, Littlejohn received a GWU Transfer Housing Grant, which offers free room and board. “The aid has given me the opportunity to get an education without putting a financial burden on me and my family,” explained Littlejohn, a senior who expects to graduate in 2023.

Plus, she was offered a spot on the women’s basketball team that ended the 2021-2022 season in fourth place and played in the semifinals of the 2022 Hercules Tires Big South Conference Championships.

Besides the opportunity to play basketball, Littlejohn wanted an academic program that would prepare her for graduate school. “I had heard how good the exercise science program was here, so I decided to check it out,” Littlejohn affirmed. “In my intro class for exercise science, we got to do labs every week.”

Working in the lab gave Littlejohn hands-on experience, such as using a finger stick to take blood and conducting a VO2 max test on the treadmill. The VO2 max test determines the body’s consumption of oxygen and the efficiency of muscles.

Littlejohn’s goal is to become a physical therapist. “I chose my field of study, because I enjoy working with and helping others,” she asserted. “In just one semester, I learned so much in the exercise science program especially with hands-on learning, which I had not experienced in the past.”

Moreover, she appreciates that professors are available to answer questions and offer help. “I wouldn’t get that experience at a larger school,” she assessed. “�۶�ֱ�� is a small community that helps students thrive inside and outside the classroom. At this university, you will always be surrounded by people who will support you and help you grow.”

�۶�ֱ�� University is North Carolina’s recognized leader in private, Christian higher education. A Carnegie-Classified Doctoral/Professional University, GWU is home to six professional schools, 14 academic departments, more than 80 undergraduate and graduate majors, and a world-class faculty. Located on a beautiful 225-acre campus in Boiling Springs, N.C., �۶�ֱ�� prepares graduates to impact their chosen professions, equips them with the skills to advance the frontiers of knowledge, and inspires them to make a positive and lasting difference in the lives of others. Ignite your future at �۶�ֱ��.edu.

The post L’Mia Littlejohn, ’23, Transferred to �۶�ֱ�� for �۶�ֱ�� and Campus Environment appeared first on �۶�ֱ�� University.

Foothills Commitment Scholarship Helps Youth Discipleship Studies Major Prepare for Ministry  

In her first year at �۶�ֱ�� University, Lauren McIntyre, of Lincolnton, N.C., engaged in campus life by joining several groups and making many friends. “GWU is a small community of believers who want to help you reach your goals and beyond,” described the youth discipleship studies major, who expects to graduate in 2025.

“You meet so many amazing people in and out of the classroom,” she continued. “The best part is that there are things for everyone. Overall, GWU has been an amazing experience for me, and I cannot wait to see what the future holds.”

She’s a member of the marching band, symphonic band, Ignite Independent (indoor drumline), Criminal Justice Club, and a GWU Women’s Ministry Bible study. She values these opportunities to pursue her interests and talents.

McIntyre is also grateful for the Foothills Commitment Scholarship, which helps to make it possible for her to attend �۶�ֱ��. The Foothills Commitment provides students from Cleveland, Gaston, Lincoln, and Rutherford, N.C., counties a minimum of 50 percent off tuition. Similarly, the Piedmont Promise offers the same commitment to students in Mecklenburg County, N.C.

“I am from a single parent household,” McIntyre shared. “So, money can be tight and everything and anything that I can get in scholarships means that I can go to school and meet amazing people while making great memories.”

She decided to apply to �۶�ֱ�� after a friend from church told her all the reasons why she had decided to attend GWU. “I applied during free application week, and everything started falling into place,” McIntyre related. “I fell in love with the campus and the amazing people. I also loved how close it is to my house.”

McIntyre’s goal is to become a youth minister, because she feels God is calling her to this area of ministry. “This semester, I have been taking more of my major classes, and I have started making friends and connections with people who have the same passion as me,” she observed. “As a religious major, it has been really nice to have classes where we are talking about God and the Bible every day. I love my class in spiritual formation and have learned so much.”

Learn more about GWU admissions and financial aid.

Note to our readers: This article reflects the University’s tuition and fee schedule at the time of publication. Tuition and financial aid policies change annually. For the most up-to-date and accurate information on current tuition rates and financial aid resources, please visit the University’s official Admissions page.

�۶�ֱ�� University is North Carolina’s recognized leader in private, Christian higher education. A Carnegie-Classified Doctoral/Professional University, GWU is home to six professional schools, 14 academic departments, more than 80 undergraduate and graduate majors, and a world-class faculty. Located on a beautiful 225-acre campus in Boiling Springs, N.C., �۶�ֱ�� prepares graduates to impact their chosen professions, equips them with the skills to advance the frontiers of knowledge, and inspires them to make a positive and lasting difference in the lives of others. Ignite your future at �۶�ֱ��.edu.

The post Lauren McIntyre, ’25, Pursues Academic and Campus Opportunities at �۶�ֱ�� appeared first on �۶�ֱ�� University.

Activities Celebrate University’s Philanthropists and Provide Opportunities to Give Back

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—The Gardner-Webb Office of Alumni Relations will host Philanthropy Week on April 4-7. Daily activities will celebrate the University’s philanthropists and the financial gifts they have made to GWU, as well as encourage students to give back to the community. 

“We want to annually demonstrate our gratitude toward the families and foundations that have supported �۶�ֱ��’s mission through the decades,” affirmed Leah Clevenger, director of Alumni relations and a GWU ’98 and ’02 alumna. “We also want to create awareness about philanthropy amongst our students. This year, we are excited to offer a Scavenger Hunt on April 7 for students. The friendly competition will get them out across campus completing fun tasks that will teach them about our philanthropists and will also get them involved in philanthropic activities.” 

The Scavenger Hunt coincides with University’s Annual Day of Giving, Double Dawg Day. On this day, supporters have the chance to take advantage of matching opportunities that could double the impact of their gifts.

Additionally, students and members of the campus community will have a chance to participate in “Philanthropy on the Fly” events, which provide various opportunities for them to help people in the community. “We will have students making PB&J sandwiches for a local homeless shelter, writing thank you letters to donors, and we are partnering with the Student Government Association to pack weekend backpacks with food for local school children,” Clevenger noted. “We are looking forward to creating awareness about philanthropy while having fun with our students.”

The activities for the week include:

• Monday, April 4 – Celebrating GWU Philanthropists: Gift Tags will be placed across campus to celebrate the generosity of GWU’s philanthropic families and foundations. Students, faculty and staff will find tags in locations like Tucker Student Center, Dover Library, O. Max Gardner Hall, as well as sport facilities like Spangler Stadium and Lutz-Yelton Convocation Center.

• Tuesday, April 5 – Philanthropy on the Fly: Stop by Tucker Student Center at 3 p.m. to fill backpacks with food for the weekend. These backpacks go home with children in the community.

• Wednesday, April 6, Let’s Thank The Donors!: Visit the Thank-a-Donor stations and write or record messages of gratitude to donors. Outside the Caf at 11 a.m. and outside Tucker at 2 p.m.

• Thursday, April 7, Annual Day of Giving (Double Dawg Day): Participate in the Second Philanthropy on the Fly of the week by making PB&J sandwiches for local homeless shelter residents. Outside the Caf at 11 a.m.

�۶�ֱ�� University is North Carolina’s recognized leader in private, Christian higher education. A Carnegie-Classified Doctoral/Professional University, GWU is home to six professional schools, 14 academic departments, more than 80 undergraduate and graduate majors, and a world-class faculty. Located on a beautiful 225-acre campus in Boiling Springs, N.C., �۶�ֱ�� prepares graduates to impact their chosen professions, equips them with the skills to advance the frontiers of knowledge, and inspires them to make a positive and lasting difference in the lives of others. Ignite your future at �۶�ֱ��.edu.

The post �۶�ֱ�� Alumni Relations Hosts Philanthropy Week – April 4-7 appeared first on �۶�ֱ�� University.

Josie Hinson,’23, Transferred to GWU, Because of Close-Knit Community

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—The scholarships that Josie Hinson, of Norwood, N.C., received to transfer to �۶�ֱ�� make it possible for her to attend the University where she feels at home. Besides making new friends, Hinson has access to an accomplished faculty who genuinely care about her academic success.

“I love feeling like a student and not like a number,” stated Hinson, an English education major. “These scholarships allow me to not only be surrounded by such excellent instructors, but I receive a well-rounded Christian education. These scholarships have granted me the opportunity to create long-lasting friendships and further my education to pursue my dream and passion to teach.”  

Her financial aid comes from the GWU Annual Fund, which is supported each year by contributions made on Double Dawg Day. This annual day of giving on April 7 gives GWU alumni and friends an opportunity to participate in matching opportunities that could double the impact.

Hinson receives the Transfer Achievement Scholarship, �۶�ֱ�� Affordability Scholarship and the Transfer Housing Grant. Since she is from a large family, the financial aid eases the burden on her parents. Hinson also works on campus in the student call center with the Dialing Dawgs. The students connect with alumni and University donors, share campus updates, and solicit donations for continued support. They also help with activities on Double Dawg Day.

“I love chatting with alumni about their past experiences,” Hinson stated. “I have learned so much about the school, and I cherish the good conversations I have had with alumni and friends of the University. Double Dawg Day last year was a lot of fun. I enjoyed handing out T-shirts to students and raising awareness about our big day of giving.”

When she graduates with her degree in 2023, Hinson feels that she will be ready to begin her teaching career. “I have always had a passion to teach,” she related. “Helping others is very important to me and I want to make a difference in someone’s life. I believe the best place to do this is in the classroom. I am learning so many skills that will apply to my teaching career. For example, in my Teaching of Writing class for this semester, we have learned how to teach for a variety of learners, and I have discovered how important it is to differentiate. If one method doesn’t work for a student, try something else that caters better to their learning style.”

Alumni, students, parents, friends, faculty and staff can unite with their fellow Bulldogs and choose to donate to the Annual Fund, which supports scholarships for students like Hinson or donate to other programs and causes on the GWU campus, including:

• University Priority Fund, which supports the greatest needs of the University.     
• School/College Priority Fund, which provides the dean with the ability to respond quickly to emerging opportunities, transform the student experience, and strengthen operational capacity.
• The University’s 22 athletic sports teams.

Join the fun as special recognitions and challenges are made throughout the day. Be the first to make a donation at 12:01 a.m., or support your favorite Runnin’ Bulldog team to win a challenge.

Matching donations are made possible thanks to the generosity of other donors. In addition to giving, individuals are also invited to serve as Social Media Ambassadors by sharing their love for �۶�ֱ�� on social media. By using #DoubleDawgDay, individuals can show their support and promote the day of giving on April 7.

For more information about #DoubleDawgDay, visit the .

Note to our readers: This article reflects the University’s tuition and fee schedule at the time of publication. Tuition and financial aid policies change annually. For the most up-to-date and accurate information on current tuition rates and financial aid resources, please visit the University’s official Admissions page.

�۶�ֱ�� University is North Carolina’s recognized leader in private, Christian higher education. A Carnegie-Classified Doctoral/Professional University, GWU is home to six professional schools, 14 academic departments, more than 80 undergraduate and graduate majors, and a world-class faculty. Located on a beautiful 225-acre campus in Boiling Springs, N.C., �۶�ֱ�� prepares graduates to impact their chosen professions, equips them with the skills to advance the frontiers of knowledge, and inspires them to make a positive and lasting difference in the lives of others. Ignite your future at �۶�ֱ��.edu.

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